The best season
The Bolivian weather is very varied and depends on the geographical position and the altitude. Seasons are reversed compared to ours, so it is winter when we have summer, and vice versa.
The best time for visiting Bolivia is from April to October, when the skies are clear and dry: April-May and September-October are even better, when the temperatures at night do not fall too much below zero and the days are sunny. Summer (November to April) is the rainy season and overland transport can become difficult.
Where to sleep
In all the places we mentioned there is a wide range of decent hotels to choose from, many of which lack of heating systems and sometimes warm water. When available, the hot shower is subject to charges.
Accommodation during the salares tour is very basic. Here too, no heating and no hot water. It takes a really great ability to adapt, but the effort is enormously rewarded.
How to dress
The proximity to the equator, the presence of high mountain ranges and the vast areas without natural protection create unpredictable weather conditions. The thing is, temperatures, except for the Amazon – where torrid heat prevails – are freezing, especially on the Andean highlands. They can go from 20 degrees during the day to -20 at night. As it often happens while traveling, you have to wear multiple layers of clothing, plus bring the warmest ones for the tour in the Salares and during the cold Bolivian nights. However, there are several markets on the spot where you can buy everything you need at very affordable prices.
Mountain sickness
Mountain sickness can affect anyone, regardless of the age and the physical condition of the individual. Undoubtedly, the best thing to do is facing the “climb” to high altitudes in order to give your body the chance to acclimatize gradually. The most common recommendation in case of headaches is to take coca mate in the morning and in the evening before going to sleep.
Transportation
We used shared taxis, buses and coaches for longer journeys. The means of transport within the country certainly are not lacking. If you travel by bus overnight as we did, opt for the “cama” or “semi cama” solution: they are extendible armchairs that will help you rest.
Vaccinations
Yellow fever vaccine is strongly recommended for those who enter Bolivia.
